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Race Result

Racer: Jamie Roberson
Race: Cherry Blossom 5k
Date: Sunday, April 3, 2005
Location: Washington, DC
Race Type: Run - 5 km
Age Group: Female 40 - 44
Time: 0:49:57
Comment: Running in Place



Race Report:



I had initially registered for the 10-Miler, but was unable to get in good mileage in Feb./March due to an obstinate flu that still has me hacking. Instead of bailing, I opted for the 5k, thinking that it would be a chance to improve over the Reston 5k two weeks earlier. The heavy rain tempted me to stay home, but I would have felt too guilty. Besides, what if it's raining for Columbia or Reston? You need the rainy experience, grasshopper.

Expecting rain, I thought that I was prepared - found a rain jacket that I could also use for cycling and brought water, a banana, and an in-case-of-emergency gel. I had a tech t-shirt over an UnderArmor turtleneck, leggings, and trail shoes. No cotton 't all. I was all psyched for splashing through rain puddles - like a little girl. Problem is, I was ready for rain, but not wind.

I huddled in the middle of the 10-milers to shield myself from the wind, then moved to the side before the race began. After cheering them on, I moved to the 5k start. Wow. Even with a tailwind, the wind felt like it was also coming from the side. I ran about halfway to the turnaround, then was forced to break into a fast walk. I was already redlining from the effort to move forward.

Then there was the trip back. I tried to pick up and run again, but I felt like a cartoon character running in place, with feet futilely moving in a circle and funny bongos playing in the background. Shifting to a walk, I actually felt like I could generate more power pushing into the wind from a walk than a run. I pushed forward, head down, arms pumping, then ran the last 100 yards to the finish. It seemed to be over too quickly.

Oh well. I had hoped for a PR on the flat course, but it wasn't meant to be. Still, there were lessons to be learned:

1. Running on a treadmill in the winter is all fine and good, but you gotta get outside.
2. Eating bananas before a race might be all fine and good for some people, but it does NOT work for you. Thank goodness the restroom near mile 2 was well-stocked.
3. No need to complain about conditions - they affect everyone. Expect the unexpected and drive on.

All in all, a good experience. Saw friendly faces - David, Debbie, and other fast folks. Didn't see Melanie, but if she ran it, hope her knee held out. I'll do this one again and put it in the "Builds Character" category.

Next up: Apr. 16, the FloraBama(tm) Mullet Man, a sprint event that starts and ends at the infamous FloraBama Lounge and Package Store, on the Florida-Alabama state line. It's near my hometown of Panama City, Fla., so it should be a hoot.